International News 24 July 2026
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Houthi Attacks on Saudi Tankers Deepen Threat to Global Energy Supply Routes
Renewed tensions in the Middle East have intensified concerns over global energy supplies after the Iran-backed Houthi movement claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea. According to Reuters, the group said the attacks were part of its naval blockade against Saudi Arabia, raising the risk of further disruptions to global oil shipments beyond the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, the U.S. military announced a new round of strikes against Iran under orders from President Donald Trump, marking the 12th consecutive day of U.S. operations. Analysts said the Houthi blockade around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could strengthen Iran's bargaining position in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict while increasing pressure on one of the world's most important maritime energy corridors.
Trump Threatens Iranian Infrastructure as Hormuz Crisis Escalates
U.S. President Donald Trump vowed to destroy Iranian bridges or power plants whenever Iran attacks vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions as Iran-backed Houthi forces threaten a second major global energy shipping route. According to Reuters, five oil tankers turned back in the Red Sea on Wednesday to avoid the Bab el-Mandeb Strait after the Houthis warned they would block Saudi oil exports. Iran's joint military command warned that any U.S. attack on its infrastructure would trigger retaliatory strikes against regional oil, gas, electricity, and economic facilities, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran's defense doctrine is "an eye for an eye". The near-total disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and mounting risks around the Bab el-Mandeb have fueled global inflation concerns and pushed oil prices to their highest levels in nearly six weeks.
Ukraine Expands Drone Campaign to Target Russia’s Largest E-Commerce Company
Ukraine has expanded its drone campaign by targeting Wildberries, Russia's largest e-commerce platform, marking a shift from attacks on energy infrastructure to strategic civilian economic assets. According to Reuters, four Wildberries warehouses were struck over the past week as part of a broader effort to disrupt companies seen as supporting Russia's economy and logistics network. Often described as the "Amazon of Russia," Wildberries has grown from a family-run business near Moscow into the country's largest online retailer and a key pillar of its digital economy. The company says it processes around 20 million orders per day through a warehouse network covering approximately 3 million square meters, while its pickup points, alongside rival Ozon, have become commonplace across Russia.